Untitled Page

Hyundai sponsors ultramarathoner and record holder Jenn Shelton

Shelton will help support Hope on Wheels and the Hyundai Veloster

By Elaine MurphyPublished: March 23, 2012 12:35 PM

Hyundai Motor America, currently based in Costa Mesa, has taken on the role of sponsor of Jenn Shelton, the world-famous ultramarathon runner. She is the first sponsored endurance athlete in the company’s history. In her new role, Shelton will promote the Hyundai-supported nonprofit Hope On Wheels, as well as the new Hyundai Veloster.

"It is a rare opportunity for a company like Hyundai to sponsor such an incredible athlete like Jenn," said John Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America CEO and president. "Her iconoclastic personality fits perfectly with the spirit of the Veloster and we are proud to represent her as she continues her athletic pursuits."

Ultramarathons encompass any long-distance running event with a distance greater than the 26.2 miles covered in a traditional marathon. Shelton has run with the Tarahumara in Mexico, a group of native people renowned for their long-distance running abilities. She plans to participate in the Mount Kinabalu Climbathon on the Pacific island of Borneo, and to run 219 miles of the John Muir Trail between Yosemite and Mount Whitney to break the trail section’s speed record. She is the female world record holder for the 100-mile trail run.

As a sponsored athlete, Shelton will represent Hyundai at events throughout the year, including the Hope On Wheels 5K race to benefit Hope on Wheels, an organization that raises funds for pediatric cancer research. Hyundai first introduced Shelton when the company debuted the three-door compact Veloster at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

"I am thrilled at the opportunity to be a part of the Hyundai family," Shelton said. "As a Veloster owner myself, I absolutely love everything about the car and hope to continue our relationship well into the future."